Gadgets

Implications - As technology becomes further integrated into the consumer’s lifestyle, communication through vibration is emerging as a seamless way to convey information between connected wearables and users. Ideal for the hearing-impaired as well as the everyday consumer, non-verbal modes of communication are bridging the gap between connected technology and the human body, creating a second-nature style of discourse that is discrete and intimate. [More]

Kitchen cooking appliances specialize for the culturally savvy home cook

Implications - As smart appliances make cooking restaurant-quality meals easier than ever, the truly elitist home cook is looking for ways to integrate their appreciation for global cultures by opting for niche appliances that can help them create authentic cuisines. This shift towards increasingly nichefied smart appliances indicates a growing desire for expertly crafted cuisine created at home for impressive results with minimal effort. [More]

Home cooks leverage high-tech appliances to ensure the perfect dish every time

Seeking to elevate their dishes to gourmet meals, aspiring home chefs are becoming more refined with their approach to cooking, turning to advanced recipes requiring sophisticated cooking techniques such as sous-vide and flavor-infusion. In order to ensure that their culinary forays turn out pristine, culinary consumers are increasingly utilizing smart appliances that allow for easy monitoring of temperature and cooking time for the assurance of high quality results. [More]

Implications - With the need for constant connectivity inescapable in the modern consumer’s lifestyle, wearable technology is becoming more adaptive to the human body through flexible adhesives that can be touched, scanned and tracked for an intuitive experience that is quickly becoming second-nature. As we move towards a future where technology becomes physically integrated into the human body, hesitant consumers are more likely to test out patch wearables that adhere to the skin for a more connected experience before committing to cyborg-style sub-dermal implants. [More]

Wearable tech takes on a more streamlined approach for seamless integration

Implications - As wearable technology becomes more commonplace for everyday consumers, chunky wearables are seeing a sleeker exterior as consumers look for pieces that suit their aesthetics and lifestyle aspirations. Armed with the knowledge that the future of technology is becoming an extension of the human body, many brands are opting for thinner and more streamlined designs that can be almost forgotten by the wearer, opening them up to a world of connectivity without the bulk. [More]

Consumers opt for custom cell cases that speak to their personal identities

Implications - As selfies continue to reign supreme on social channels, having a phone case that is equally on brand has become important for consumers conscious about their online image. While creative cases are nothing new, an increasing emergence of personalized cases ensures that consumers can send a message and get their unique identity across with an item that is special to them and their self-image. Already carefully curating their social feeds, customizing details such as their cell phone case that is sure to show up in any mirror shot demonstrates the desire for a more sentimental approach to accessories and style. [More]

Implications - While IoT is generally seen throughout home appliances, smart technology is being integrated into home gardens as well, making it more intuitive for the connected consumer to grow their plants, even if they don’t have the greenest thumb. As consumers become reliant on their digital devices, they run the risk of getting out of touch with nature, which leads to the counter-trend of incorporating more natural elements within the home environment. [More]

Implications - Second to owning a time machine to rewind the aging process, high-tech tools that promise to reverse fine lines and prevent future wrinkles are the answer for many consumers when it comes to sophisticated anti-aging they can use at home. As demand for instant gratification leaves creams and serums in the lurch, many consumers are turning to lasers and electronics that they can integrate into their skincare routines without having to undergo the pain of injectibles or surgery. This shift demonstrates a desire from consumers to take matters into their own hands when it comes to age reversal. [More]

Implications - Consumers can now get their very own personal assistant in the kitchen to help them navigate complex recipes, concoct delicious dishes and keep tabs on diet and nutrition needs for their families through smart technology that responds to vocal commands. With voice-control, consumers don’t need to be very familiar with the technical aspects of their IoT home, they can simply speak aloud and the connected appliances respond accordingly. The increasing integration of technology into the home is seeing a shift towards more intuitive usage that requires little effort on behalf of the consumer. [More]

Millennials rely on humor-driven tech in their transition to adulthood

Implications - Reframing day-to-day challenges to seem less intimidating, satirical comedy is being incorporated into helpful apps and assistive robotics, making the transition into adulthood more manageable for the Millennial demographic. Already heavily reliant on technology, Millennials entering this responsibility-laden stage of their lives are practically forming relationships with their trusted tech companions, looking for devices that not only help them in their day-to-day, but also alleviate some of their stress and anxiety through humor and personality. [More]